Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, a toaster oven is a great investment. Whether you need to toast bread, bake cookies, or roast a chicken, a toaster oven can do it all. And when it comes to finding the best toaster oven, Serious Eats has got you covered.
Serious Eats is a trusted source for food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Their team of experts rigorously tests and reviews kitchen appliances to provide the most reliable recommendations. When it comes to toaster ovens, they have put several models through their paces to determine which ones perform the best.
In their quest for the best toaster oven, Serious Eats considers factors such as cooking performance, ease of use, capacity, and price. They test how well each toaster oven toasts bread, bakes cookies and cakes, and roasts meats. They also take into account how user-friendly each model is, with features like intuitive controls, easy-to-clean interiors, and helpful accessories.
Overview of Toaster Ovens
Toaster ovens are versatile kitchen appliances that can perform a variety of cooking tasks, making them a popular choice among home cooks. These compact appliances combine the functions of a toaster and an oven, allowing you to toast bread, cook pizzas, bake cookies, and more. They are a convenient alternative to using a full-sized oven, especially for small kitchens or when you don’t want to heat up your entire kitchen for a small meal or snack.
One of the main advantages of toaster ovens is their ability to quickly heat up and cook food. They typically use heating elements located at the top and bottom of the oven, which means they can reach high temperatures faster than traditional ovens. This makes toaster ovens ideal for toasting bread, melting cheese, or reheating leftovers. Many models also come with adjustable temperature settings, so you can easily customize the cooking process based on your recipe.
Additionally, toaster ovens are designed with convenience in mind. They often have a compact size, making them easy to fit on a countertop or in a small kitchen. They also come with features like timers and automatic shut-off functions, allowing you to set the cooking time and focus on other tasks without worrying about overcooking your food.
Furthermore, toaster ovens often come with multiple cooking functions and settings, such as broiling, baking, and toasting. Some even have convection capabilities, which use a fan to circulate hot air and cook food more evenly. These versatile features make toaster ovens a valuable tool in the kitchen, suitable for a wide range of recipes and cooking techniques.
In conclusion, toaster ovens offer a convenient and efficient way to cook a variety of foods. With their compact size, quick heating capabilities, and versatile cooking settings, they are a popular choice among home cooks looking for a versatile appliance to enhance their cooking experience.
What is a toaster oven?
A toaster oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a toaster and an oven. It is designed for toasting bread and baking small food items, offering a convenient alternative to using a full-size oven for smaller tasks.
Toaster ovens come in various sizes and designs, but they typically consist of a compact oven chamber with one or multiple heating elements and temperature controls. They also often feature a timer and adjustable racks to accommodate different types of food. Some models even have additional features like convection cooking or built-in air fryers.
One of the main advantages of a toaster oven is its ability to quickly and evenly toast bread slices. The heating elements can be adjusted to the desired level of browning, allowing you to achieve the perfect toast every time. Additionally, toaster ovens can be used for other cooking tasks like roasting vegetables, baking cookies, or reheating leftovers.
Overall, a toaster oven is a practical appliance for those who want the convenience of a toaster and the versatility of an oven in one compact unit. Whether you have limited counter space, want to save energy, or need a quick and efficient way to cook smaller meals, a toaster oven can be a valuable addition to your kitchen arsenal.
Benefits of using a toaster oven
When it comes to cooking and baking, a toaster oven can be a valuable addition to any kitchen. Its compact size and versatility make it a convenient appliance to have on hand. Here are some of the benefits of using a toaster oven:
- Energy efficiency: Toaster ovens consume less energy compared to traditional ovens. They heat up quickly and require less time to reach the desired temperature, which means they use less electricity or gas. This not only saves money on utility bills but also reduces your environmental impact.
- Time-saving: With a toaster oven, you can cut down on cooking time. The smaller size allows for faster preheating, and the heat is more concentrated, resulting in quicker cooking or baking. This is especially useful when you need to prepare a meal or snack in a hurry.
- Versatility: A toaster oven can perform a wide range of cooking tasks. From toasting bread and bagels to baking pizzas and casseroles, it can handle various dishes with ease. Some models even come with additional features like rotisserie or air frying, expanding your cooking options.
- Space-saving: If you have limited counter space or a small kitchen, a toaster oven is a great space-saving solution. It takes up less room compared to a full-size oven and can be easily stored when not in use. This makes it a perfect choice for apartments, dorms, or RVs.
- Easy to clean: Cleaning a toaster oven is generally much simpler than cleaning a traditional oven. Most toaster ovens come with removable racks and trays that can be easily washed in the sink or dishwasher. The compact size also means fewer surfaces to wipe down, making cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, or simply looking for a convenient cooking appliance, a toaster oven offers numerous benefits. Its energy efficiency, time-saving capabilities, versatility, space-saving design, and easy cleanup make it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen.
How Does a Toaster Oven Work?
A toaster oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functionality of a toaster and an oven. It is designed to toast bread and also to bake, broil, and even roast small portions of food. To understand how a toaster oven works, let’s take a closer look at its key components and mechanisms.
The main part of a toaster oven is its heating elements. These elements, usually made of metal, generate heat when an electric current passes through them. The heat is then transferred to the air inside the oven, raising its temperature. The heating elements are strategically placed both at the top and bottom to ensure even cooking and toasting.
When you turn on a toaster oven, the electricity is sent to the heating elements, and they start to heat up. The temperature inside the oven is controlled by a thermostat, which regulates the amount of electricity flowing to the elements. Once the desired temperature is reached, the thermostat cuts off the power supply to maintain a consistent temperature while you cook or toast your food.
- Toast mode: In toast mode, the toaster oven primarily uses the heating elements at the top and bottom. The bread is placed on a wire rack or a toaster tray, and the heat produced is directed towards it. The toaster oven preheats quickly, making it convenient for toasting bread or bagels in a shorter time compared to a traditional oven.
- Bake mode: When you switch to bake mode, the toaster oven uses both the upper and lower heating elements to heat the air inside the oven. This allows you to bake small portions of food, such as cookies or muffins, with evenly distributed heat for consistent results.
- Broil mode: In broil mode, the upper heating element becomes the primary source of heat. This high-intensity heat is ideal for browning the top of dishes like casseroles or melting cheese on open-faced sandwiches.
- Roast mode: Toaster ovens with a roast function typically utilize both the upper and lower heating elements, along with a rotating spit or a convection fan. This feature is useful for roasting meats and vegetables, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping them moist inside.
Overall, a toaster oven works by generating and controlling heat to cook or toast food. Its ability to perform multiple cooking functions in a compact size makes it a convenient and efficient kitchen appliance.
Top Picks for Best Toaster Ovens on Serious Eats
When it comes to toasting, baking, and broiling, a toaster oven is a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks. Serious Eats has compiled a list of their top picks for the best toaster ovens, ensuring that you can find the perfect option to suit your needs.
Breville Smart Oven Pro – Known for its precise temperature control and even cooking performance, the Breville Smart Oven Pro is a top choice for serious home cooks. With its spacious interior and numerous cooking functions, such as slow cooking and dehydrating, this toaster oven offers versatility and reliability.
Hamilton Beach Easy Reach Toaster Oven – For those who value convenience and simplicity, the Hamilton Beach Easy Reach Toaster Oven is an excellent option. Its unique roll-top door provides easy access to the oven’s interior, making it effortless to remove your food. With its compact size, this toaster oven is perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
- Oster Digital French Door Oven – Featuring a stylish design and digital controls, the Oster Digital French Door Oven offers a sleek and modern look for any kitchen. Its double French doors not only make it easy to access your food but also provide a wide opening for large dishes.
- Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven – With its powerful convection fan and large capacity, the Cuisinart Chef’s Convection Toaster Oven ensures even baking and cooking every time. It also includes a variety of cooking functions, such as pizza and roast, making it a versatile choice for any home cook.
- Anova Precision Oven – If you’re looking for precise temperature control and sous vide capabilities, the Anova Precision Oven is worth considering. This smart toaster oven allows you to cook with precision, ensuring consistent and delicious results.
With these top picks from Serious Eats, you can find the best toaster oven to meet your cooking needs. Whether you prioritize temperature control, convenience, or versatility, there is a toaster oven on this list that will elevate your cooking experience.
Key Features to Consider
When searching for the best toaster oven, there are several key features to consider that can greatly enhance your cooking experience. These features can range from basic necessities to more advanced functions that can turn your toaster oven into a versatile kitchen appliance. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of a toaster oven can greatly impact its functionality. Consider how much space you have in your kitchen and what types of dishes you plan on cooking. Look for a toaster oven that can accommodate the size of your preferred cookware and has enough space to fit the amount of food you typically cook. Some toaster ovens even come with multiple racks or adjustable shelves to maximize space and allow for cooking multiple dishes at once.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is another crucial feature to consider in a toaster oven. Look for a model that offers precise temperature settings, allowing you to cook a wide variety of recipes with accuracy. Some toaster ovens even come with convection technology, which uses a fan to distribute the heat evenly throughout the oven, resulting in faster and more even cooking. This feature can be particularly useful for baking and roasting.
Timer and Automatic Shut-Off
A timer and automatic shut-off feature are convenient additions to any toaster oven. These features allow you to set a cooking time and walk away, knowing that your food will be cooked to perfection and the oven will automatically turn off when the time is up. This prevents overcooking and ensures that you don’t have to constantly monitor the oven. Look for a toaster oven with a user-friendly timer interface and a loud enough alert sound to notify you when your food is ready.
Easy to Clean
No one wants to spend excessive time cleaning their kitchen appliances, so it’s important to look for a toaster oven that is easy to clean. Consider models with removable crumb trays and non-stick interior surfaces, as they make it easy to wipe away crumbs and spills. Some toaster ovens even have self-cleaning functions that use heat to burn off residue, making cleaning a breeze.
Additional Features
Some toaster ovens come with additional features that can add convenience and versatility to your cooking experience. These features can include rotisserie functions, air frying capabilities, and even built-in sensors that adjust cooking time and temperature based on the type of food you’re cooking. Consider your unique cooking needs and preferences when choosing a toaster oven with additional features.
Size and Capacity
In terms of size and capacity, toaster ovens can vary greatly. Some are compact and suitable for small kitchens or for those who have limited countertop space. These smaller models are great for toasting bread or heating up leftovers, but may not be able to accommodate larger dishes or items.
On the other hand, there are larger toaster ovens that can handle more food at once. These models often have multiple racks or shelves, allowing users to cook or bake multiple items simultaneously. This can be convenient for those who frequently cook for a large family or like to meal prep.
When choosing a toaster oven, it is important to consider your specific needs and the amount of space you have available in your kitchen. If you primarily use a toaster oven for simple tasks like toasting bread or reheating leftovers, a smaller model may be more than sufficient. However, if you plan on using your toaster oven for more extensive cooking or baking, a larger capacity model with additional features may be a better fit for you.
10 Best Toaster Oven Serious Eats
Black+Decker Countertop Convection Toaster Oven, 8 One-touch Cooking Functions, Stainless Steel
Features
| Part Number | CTO6335S |
| Model | CTO6335S |
| Color | Silver |
| Size | Extra-Deep Interior |
| Language | English |
- 8 ONE-TOUCH PRESETS + CONVECTION BAKING - Hot air is circulated throughout the oven for fast, even baking; Bake, broil, toast, bagel, pizza, frozen snacks, potatoes, & cookie one-touch cooking functions make it quick and easy to cook a variety of meals
- EXTRA-DEEP INTERIOR - Forget about heating up the large oven - This countertop oven is designed to fit 12” pizzas, and things like casserole dishes, whole chickens, and more
- DUAL POSITION RACK - Place food right under the broiler or make room for large items. High and low oven rack positions provide the versatility to have great results on all foods
- 120-MINUTE TIMER - The digital timer ensures accurate results. Set it for short jobs like toasting and broiling, or longer for baking. The oven turns off when the timer runs out
- CLEAR-VIEW GLASS DOOR: The large glass door lets you keep an eye on food during cooking; Bake Pan, Removable Crumb Tray, Rack Included with non-stick interior
BLACK+DECKER Crisp N Bake Air Fry 4-Slice Toaster Oven, Gray, TO1785SG
Features
| Part Number | 257696 |
| Model | TO1785SG |
| Color | Gray |
| Size | 4-Slice |
- Air Fry Technology - Deep fried taste without the fat! This innovative cooking method surrounds food with high intensity hot air to bake, brown, and crisp your favorite fried foods using little to no oil.
- Two Control Knobs - Simple controls for the 30-minute timer and for selecting the cooking function.
- EvenToast Technology - More even toasting with the unique heat diffuser design. It evenly distributes heat and infrared energy throughout the oven to optimize even toasting.
- Five Cooking Functions - Choose from Air Fry, Bake, Broil, Toast, and Keep Warm.
- Cooking Capacity - This countertop toaster oven fits a 9” pizza, four slices of bread, or a variety of other snacks and meals.
Gourmia Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo 17 cooking presets 1700W french door digital air fryer oven 24L capacity accessories, convection rack, baking pan tray...
Features
| Part Number | GTF7460 |
| Model | GTF7460 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | Large |
- 17-MODE, QUICK COOKING OVEN | Toast, Bake, Dehydrate, Air Fry, & More In A Fraction Of The Time With This Combo Marvel From Gourmia | Easy 1-Touch Control Panel With 17 Preset Options To Cook Your Favorite Breads, Meats, & Vegetables To Crispy Goodness
- HIGH PERFORMANCE, COMPACT SPACE | This Powerful 1700 Watt Oven Features Single Pull Auto French Doors For Style & Convenience | Space-Saving Appliance Still Has Plenty Of Capacity | Large Enough To Fit A 12” Pizza Or Up To 6 Slices Of Bread
- CUSTOM TIME, MODE, & TEMPERATURE | Use The Simple Touch Control Panel To Select Your Cooking Settings, Time, & Temperature In Just A Few Clicks | No Matter Which Preferences You Select, You’ll Get 360° Air Flow For High-Quality, Even Cooking, Every Time
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO EAT GOURMET | This Set Includes A Fry Basket, Oven Rack, Baking, Pan, & Crumb Tray For Peak Performance On Every Dish | Try Out Some Of The Included Recipes & Turn Your Kitchen Into A Gourmia Cooking Hotspot
- GREAT FOR MICRO LIVING SPACES | Save Room Without Sacrificing Flavor In Lofts, Apartments, & College Dorms | While You’re At It, Pop One Into Your Vacation Spot, Cabin, RV, Or Tiny Home Away From Home For Premium Dishes Wherever Your Life Takes You
Elite Gourmet ETO2530M Double French Door Countertop Toaster Oven, Bake, Broil, Toast, Keep Warm, Fits 12" pizza, 25L capacity, Stainless Steel & Black
Features
| Part Number | ETO2530M |
| Model | ETO2530M |
| Color | Stainless Steel and Black |
| Size | 6-Slice, 25L |
- 25L XL CAPACITY: Fits 6 slices of toast and cooks up to an 11lb roast. Three rack positions plus 0.9cuft capacity can fit up to a 12" pizza with interior dimensions of 13.25"x 13.50"x 8.95".
- FRENCH DUAL DOOR DESIGN allows you to open one or both doors at a time saving precious counter space. Three rack positions allow you to cook multiple dishes at once.
- PRECISION COOKING CONTROL: The built-in heat selector switch allows you to select numerous cooking features for Baking, Broiling, Toasting, Pizza and Keep Warm.
- ADJUSTABLE TIMER: The oven includes a 60-Minute timer with indicator bell and toast shade settings.
- 1500 WATTS OF POWER: Optimize your cooking needs with an adjustable thermostat from 200°F to 450°F and 1500 watts of cooking power
COSORI Smart 11-in-1 Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, Airfryer Convection Oven Countertop, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Broil, Dehydrate, 94 Recipes & 3 Accessories,...
Features
| Part Number | CTO-R251S-KUS |
| Model | CTO-R251S |
| Color | Silver-Stainless Steel |
| Release Date | 2024-02-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 26 Quart |
- Cook Versatile: 12 functions for Air Fry, Bake, Toast, Roast, Broil, etc. It's more than just a smart oven.
- Fulfill Family Needs: Perfect for 6 slices of bread, a 12-inch pizza, or a 5lbs whole chicken to create an entire family meal in one 26QT oven. Make this Christmas unforgettable with a culinary creation that delights the whole family.
- Cook In Minutes: 6 heat elements and a 2-speed fan, enjoy rapid heat circulation for evenly cooked food in less time.
- Cook Smart: Stay inspired with recipes on the free VeSync app by connecting to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You'll be cooking like a pro in no time.
- Stainless Steel: Crafted with stainless steel, it's durable for the kitchen.
- Helpful Accessories: Includes 1 oven rack, 1 food tray, 1 fry basket, 1 crumb tray, and a recipe book. Search B0B92TPHTV, B0B93CMST3, and B0B8ZNVRX3 for accessories.
- EASY TO CLEAN: External removable crumb tray prevents the backflow of the soup from dirtying the bottom. The non-stick food tray is easy to clean
- REQUIREMENTS: To access VeSync, a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network is required. The product can only be used with a voltage of AC 120V, 60Hz, which only applies to the US and Canada. The product is ETL Listed
FAQ
What is the difference between size and capacity?
Size refers to the physical dimensions or measurement of an object, while capacity refers to the maximum amount or volume that an object can hold or contain.
How is size calculated?
Size can be calculated by measuring the dimensions of an object, such as its length, width, and height. These measurements are typically expressed in units such as inches, centimeters, or feet.
What is the difference between size and weight?
Size refers to the physical dimensions or measurement of an object, while weight refers to the heaviness of an object caused by the gravitational pull. Size is usually measured in units like inches or centimeters, while weight is measured in units like pounds or kilograms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the size and capacity of objects or systems is essential for various purposes, ranging from designing efficient machinery and infrastructure to managing resources and making decisions. Whether it is quantifying the storage capacity of a device or determining the dimensions of a structure, size and capacity play critical roles in numerous fields such as engineering, technology, logistics, and architecture. By accurately assessing size and capacity, businesses can optimize operations, enhance productivity, and deliver better services to their customers. Furthermore, individuals can make informed choices based on the size and capacity of products and services, ensuring suitability and effectiveness. Therefore, comprehending and properly utilizing size and capacity can lead to improved efficiency, sustainability, and performance in both professional and personal environments.
